WINNIPEG — To Winnipeg Jets fans, he was simply known as “Kroppy”. To his family he was a loving father, grandfather, uncle and friend.
On Thursday, Len Kropioski’s daughter issued their first statement since the 98-year-old passed.
“To us, Kroppy was a kind and loving father, grandfather, uncle and friend to so many. But somewhere along the line – initially unknown to us – he became a “Rock Star.”
Kroppy became an instant hit after he was shown on the big screen during one of the Jets’ first games, saluting the flag during the national anthem.
The veteran a was big fan of the Jets, making a 4.5 hour round trip from his home in Kenora, Ont., to almost every game.
READ: Winnipeg Jets fan favourite “Kroppy” passes away at 98
He passed away Sept. 13.
In that same statement the family said they were grateful to the people who sent flowers and cards, and visited in person.
“The family has been blessed to have had Kroppy in our lives for so many years. He was truly one of a kind.”
“The family is so grateful and humbled by the love and kindness bestowed upon Kroppy during the past several years when he attended the hockey games to watch his beloved Winnipeg Jets.”
The club has said they were working on a plan to appropriately honour Kroppy during the first home game, Oct. 13.